Something to Believe In

the youth volunteer program should fit into the overall program at the nature center, I called upon my past volunteer experiences, what I liked about them and what I did not like. We decided volunteers like responsibility, being recognized for accomplishments and learning things by doing them. They do not like boring or monotonous jobs and being treated like children. Our youth volunteer program was structured to be rewarding and fun.

Typically, the youths phone the nature center at the beginning of the week to tell us their schedule. A list of projects is ready when they get to the nature center. The youth volunteers work all of our big events, such as the Naturescape Symposium, Earth Day, the Family Fishing Fair and off-site exhibits, such as Kid's Fest and the 4th of July Celebration.

They assist with the Conservation Kid's Club and give presentations and hikes at the nature center and off-site. They also help us with mailings, computer work, preparation for programs and so many numerous little jobs that the staff wonder how the nature center ever got along without them.

Just the other day two busloads of children came from St. Louis. Their leaders came to the front desk asking for a movie, a tour of the exhibits and a hike on the trail. All of the interpretive staff were busy with programs. But the youth volunteers came to the rescue.

Two of the volunteers were in that day doing other jobs and were able to stop what they were doing to assist this group. Volunteers made this group's trip to the nature center more personalized and fun than we ever could have without them.

In their first month after graduating, our teen volunteers worked over 400 hours, which is nearly equivalent to the work accomplished by three full-time employees. The volunteers have a heartfelt interest and concern for our environment and its future and benefit the community by learning about conservation and spreading the word to their friends, families and anybody else who will listen.

The great thing about teenagers is that they know everything (just ask one), so when they are asked to give a presentation on conservation or lead a hike they are not afraid and will give the presentation with zeal and gusto. The nature center staff wishes for some of that extra energy at times. When asked by a local newspaper reporter why they felt it was important to teach others about conservation, a volunteer replied: "Earth's natural ecosystem is being altered, and in some cases, destroyed by man. I think that we should learn to conserve earth's resources and encourage others to do so before it is too late."

Another stated that it " ... is important to teach people about conservation at an early age. If kids are taught to recycle, conserve energy and respect the environment, they will make better decisions as adults." These kids are our next generation and have a lot to offer to their communities. Next time you are in Jefferson City, take a trip to the Runge Conservation Nature Center and meet some teenagers who will change the way you feel about this age group. They sure changed my attitude about teenagers.

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Serving Nature and You

MDC protects and manages Missouri's fish, forest, and wildlife resources. We also facilitate your participation in resource-management activities, and we provide opportunities for you to use, enjoy and learn about nature. Read more about our mission.